WHAT IS TRANSHUMANISM

Transhumanism is the concept and cultural movement that supports using technology to improve the human condition by enhancing the human body and mind. While many fields of study try to help people with science and technology, Transhumanism is distinct because it proposes enhancing the human body on an individual level. Transhumansist wish to abolish suffering and improve the quality and duration of human life. The result of these efforts to enhance humans could lead to a new type of being so different from humans that it could be called post human. That is where the term Transhuman is derived from: it is a transition to a post human state.

History and influences

Transhumanism has been a growing movement that has been developing over the last few decades. However, for centuries people have dreamed about what it would be like if humans were smarter, more capable and lived longer. But only in recent years have technological advancement made these fantasies seem not only attainable but inevitable. Transhumanism has roots in traditional secular humanism, yet differs in that Transhumanism suggests not only traditional means of improving human nature, such as education and cultural refinement, but also the application of science and technology to overcome some of humanities basic bodily limits on an individual level.

Values of Transhumanism

One can understand Transhumanism better by knowing the core values, goals and interests of Transhumanist. First, lets explore some of the values that Transhumanist usually have in common. At the core is the value of human life and the desire for any individual to have the right and freedom to explore their own potential by enhancing themselves with technology. Transhumanist believe that there is nothing wrong with "tampering with nature," and the idea of hubris is absurd. They are evolutionist and feel that it is a human right and responsibility to take an active roll in the evolution of the human species.

While Transhumanist value spirituality, enhanced human perception and greater awareness they tend not to rely on antiquated religious theologies that would defer responsibility of human destiny only to a divine being. Transhumanist feel that humans have the right and responsibility to better themselves and to use reason and technology to solve human problems. They also don't rely on an after-life for actualization of transcendental goals but rather see this life as the venue for improvement and progress.

Also, Transhumanists value intelligence and the freedom of information exchange. By encouraging research, public debate and open-mindedness of the potential of future development of humanity. The technologies that will assist in becoming transhuman can best be developed by the sharing and converging of understanding. In fact, broadening human intelligence through individual enhancements, artificial intelligence and collective communication of minds would help develop the other technologies of interest even more quickly. Transhumanist also value pragmatism and adaptability; using scientific reasoning to create practical applications that will help people have better lives.

The development of the technology Transhumanists want depends on certain global conditions. Thus, Transhumanist value peace, freedom and international cooperation. As everyone should, Transhumanist value anti-proliferation of nuclear weapons and other forms of weapons of mass destruction. They care about the environment and ensuring the health of the biosphere. Transhumanist value diversity and are non-discriminatory. They believe everyone should have access to and freedom to have enhancing technology no matter what gender, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual preference, creed, level of cyberization or species they are. Transhumanist value "wide-access" to enhancing technologies for anyone who wants it. They do not favor an elitist mentality.

One can also understand Transhumanism better by knowing what some of the goals Transhumanist hope to achieve. As mentioned above Transhumanist want to improve the quality of human life, but what does that mean and in what ways do they plan to make this possible?

Continue to Part 2 of What is Transhumanism